Do you hide part or all of yourself from others because of the stigma associated with being your authentic self? Perhaps you are stuck or in emotional pain because of a distressing experience, twisted belief, or problem-filled story. These negative “stories” can play out in our relationships, work, family life, and self-care. I help motivated adults get on the path to being their best selves. Together we will understand how these “stories” have impacted you. You and I can identify the best ways for you to take control of this negative-filled “story.” Jointly, we can develop a new story where make the observable changes you have set for yourself! I take an eclectic approach to treating clients. Like crayons in a box, I like to use many different colors. My approach integrates mindfulness, evidence-based treatments, geeky storytelling, and most importantly your experiences. You know yourself best, therefore; I encourage you to take from therapy what works and leave the rest. In this virtual therapeutic space, I encourage you to be yourself. Negative judgment and criticism are not allowed here because they are not helpful. If I “catch” you judging yourself, I will gently remind you. Not judging yourself is a skill and if you work with me, you will get plenty of practice. Whether we work together, my hope for you is that you be happy, be healthy, and be at peace.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
The first session is highly structured. There are many items to complete and limited time. Also, we are meeting to see if we will be a good match. I can go into more detail if this occurs. This is a different type of professional relationship. It can feel awkward to come to therapy and speak to a stranger. It can take up to six sessions to feel comfortable with a therapist. Give yourself some time for the process to unfold. There are three stages of therapy: beginning, middle, and end. The beginning stage is about me getting to know you, getting to know your story, and identifying your goals. The middle phase is working on your goals. The end is reviewing what you learned and what's next to work on (if anything at all).
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to identify the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I borrow from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help process problematic thoughts and behaviors and learn how to regulate emotions. Trauma-informed modalities are utilized to help increase your awareness of how trauma impacts your life Narrative Therapy provides a framework for your life (past, present, and future) using analogies, and storytelling that borrows from science fiction, fantasy, music, spirituality, and culture. I also utilize auxiliary tools such as mobile apps, journaling assignments, diagrams, handouts/worksheets, and books (bibliotherapy) that can help you further your processing between sessions.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I help to demystify therapy and make therapy accessible to clients who may have negative experiences with the United States mental healthcare system or historically have been harmed by those who were supposed to help them. I offer you a balance of accountability and encouragement without judgment. I have been honored to work with wonderful people. My clients come from all different cultures and abilities. The clients who seek me out tend to be people of color, queer folx, and individuals from other marginalized groups. I have helped treat: anxiety, depression, career changes, grief and loss, break-ups, family issues, coming out issues, cultural issues, sexual orientation and gender identity issues, guilt/shame, and trauma.